Free roasted pigs: Koronadal’s 13th Lechon Festival draws crowds

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Residents flocked to the City of Koronadal Integrated Public Transport Terminal on Thursday for the 13th Lechon Festival, where they were served free roasted pigs as part of the Negosyo Festival and 26^th Charter Anniversary celebrations.

The event brought together the city’s 27 barangays and 12 commercial lechon establishments, which competed for the title of best lechon in their respective categories.

Each barangay prepared one roasted pig, and judges scored their entries based on taste, color, and overall presentation. After the judging, the roasted pigs were given to the public.

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The competition offered a P20,000 cash prize for the champion, P15,000 for second place, and P10,000 for third place. Other participants would receive P2,000 each as a consolation prize.

Meanwhile, the 12 commercial lechon establishments also showcased their products, with vendors roasting at least two additional pigs each, this time for sale to customers.

The freshly roasted lechon, known for its crispy skin and juicy meat, was sold at P450 per kilogram.

The city government also prepared two roasted cows for members of the Muslim community and residents who do not eat pork, allowing them to join the food celebration.

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Mayor Erlinda Araquil said that beyond the competition, the festival highlighted lechon as a traditional Filipino dish often served during fiestas, family gatherings, and other celebrations.

The event also brought together residents, barangay representatives, and local food businesses, allowing them to share food and celebrate the city’s culinary traditions./coa